What is the Alternative Field Study Committee?
The Alternative Field Study Committee (AFSC) is a group of environmental organizations local to the Reno, Nevada metropolitan-area, who are committed to supporting environmental education opportunities for K-12th grade students. This committee has banded together to create programs that are catered to meet the unique new educational constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These resources are free, and designed with teachers in mind, to support both their distance and in-classroom learners with little-to-no amendments needed. Programs follow Next Generation Science and Common Core standards. Though these programs are designed for teachers and students in the public school system, they are also great resources for homeschool families, private school teachers, and youth-education programs. Each program comes with 3 resources: a pre-lesson component (educational video, PPT, story, or activity that orients the learner to the concepts), the lesson itself, and a post-lesson component (which serves as a homework assignment or cool-down activity to wrap-up student learning and assist in measuring student comprehension).
Our mission is to provide high-quality, accessible science education resources that are designed to support all variations of student learning and adapted to meet the current constraints imposed upon our educators by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Alternative Field Study Committee (AFSC) is a group of environmental organizations local to the Reno, Nevada metropolitan-area, who are committed to supporting environmental education opportunities for K-12th grade students. This committee has banded together to create programs that are catered to meet the unique new educational constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These resources are free, and designed with teachers in mind, to support both their distance and in-classroom learners with little-to-no amendments needed. Programs follow Next Generation Science and Common Core standards. Though these programs are designed for teachers and students in the public school system, they are also great resources for homeschool families, private school teachers, and youth-education programs. Each program comes with 3 resources: a pre-lesson component (educational video, PPT, story, or activity that orients the learner to the concepts), the lesson itself, and a post-lesson component (which serves as a homework assignment or cool-down activity to wrap-up student learning and assist in measuring student comprehension).
Our mission is to provide high-quality, accessible science education resources that are designed to support all variations of student learning and adapted to meet the current constraints imposed upon our educators by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Committee Organizations
Great Basin Institute
The Great Basin Institute (GBI) is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service throughout the West. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands. GBI is the interpretive association that manages the Galena Creek Visitor Center located in South Reno. The Galena Creek Visitor Center encourages the understanding, appreciation and appropriate use of the natural and cultural resources of the Galena Canyon area and the Mount Rose Scenic Byway. We accomplish our mission through community and education programming including youth exploration camps, day and residential field studies, homeschool and toddler events, guided nature hikes, and year-round educational presentations.
The Great Basin Institute (GBI) is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service throughout the West. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands. GBI is the interpretive association that manages the Galena Creek Visitor Center located in South Reno. The Galena Creek Visitor Center encourages the understanding, appreciation and appropriate use of the natural and cultural resources of the Galena Canyon area and the Mount Rose Scenic Byway. We accomplish our mission through community and education programming including youth exploration camps, day and residential field studies, homeschool and toddler events, guided nature hikes, and year-round educational presentations.
Great Basin Outdoor School
Great Basin Outdoor School teaches leadership, community involvement, and environmental ethics at overnight science camps in spectacular natural settings on Nevada’s shoreline of Lake Tahoe and day programs at other local sites, and underserved children are included thanks to generous community support. Activities meet state curriculum standards in many subjects, especially science. Students hike, snowshoe, learn local ecology with hands-on activities, and do environmental projects. Teachers bring classes throughout the school year, and parents bring children for day camps, family hikes, and after school programs. College students earn internship credit, and teachers receive STEM training and recertification credit. Great Basin Outdoor School has served thousands of children as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 1998.
Great Basin Outdoor School teaches leadership, community involvement, and environmental ethics at overnight science camps in spectacular natural settings on Nevada’s shoreline of Lake Tahoe and day programs at other local sites, and underserved children are included thanks to generous community support. Activities meet state curriculum standards in many subjects, especially science. Students hike, snowshoe, learn local ecology with hands-on activities, and do environmental projects. Teachers bring classes throughout the school year, and parents bring children for day camps, family hikes, and after school programs. College students earn internship credit, and teachers receive STEM training and recertification credit. Great Basin Outdoor School has served thousands of children as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 1998.
Sierra Nevada Journeys
At Sierra Nevada Journeys, we specialize in “aha” moments where the lights come on and everything is boldly and brightly illuminated and the world suddenly makes perfect sense. These moments of awakening, self-discovery and joy revolutionize young lives. They remove barriers and open the door to untold possibilities for a student. At Sierra Nevada Journeys, “aha” moments are the reason we exist. As an outdoor science education nonprofit, we’ve helped more than 190,000 children to explore Nature through science, and fuel their own unique connections and discoveries. Most students we serve come from high-need communities across Northern Nevada and Northern California. In fact, 61 percent of our students are children of color and over half the kids we serve come from low-income families. Our mission is to deliver innovative outdoor, science-based programs for youth to foster our next generation of our community’s leaders, scientists, and stewards. Now is your moment to support Sierra Nevada Journeys and create more “aha” moments for youth.
At Sierra Nevada Journeys, we specialize in “aha” moments where the lights come on and everything is boldly and brightly illuminated and the world suddenly makes perfect sense. These moments of awakening, self-discovery and joy revolutionize young lives. They remove barriers and open the door to untold possibilities for a student. At Sierra Nevada Journeys, “aha” moments are the reason we exist. As an outdoor science education nonprofit, we’ve helped more than 190,000 children to explore Nature through science, and fuel their own unique connections and discoveries. Most students we serve come from high-need communities across Northern Nevada and Northern California. In fact, 61 percent of our students are children of color and over half the kids we serve come from low-income families. Our mission is to deliver innovative outdoor, science-based programs for youth to foster our next generation of our community’s leaders, scientists, and stewards. Now is your moment to support Sierra Nevada Journeys and create more “aha” moments for youth.
Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation
Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is dedicated to protecting and enhancing our communities' livability through public engagement, education, and the sustainability of our parks, open spaces, and trails. The Parks Foundation accomplishes this by serving as a mechanism through which citizens can advocate for their parks, providing strategic financial support for new and existing park infrastructure and programs, and by offering park-based educational and recreational programs designed to increase community-wide awareness, appreciation, and stewardship of our parks and open spaces. Our programs operate under the “Healthy Parks Healthy People: Truckee Meadows” initiative, which is based on the idea that the health of our parks is integrally related to the health of our community members.
Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is dedicated to protecting and enhancing our communities' livability through public engagement, education, and the sustainability of our parks, open spaces, and trails. The Parks Foundation accomplishes this by serving as a mechanism through which citizens can advocate for their parks, providing strategic financial support for new and existing park infrastructure and programs, and by offering park-based educational and recreational programs designed to increase community-wide awareness, appreciation, and stewardship of our parks and open spaces. Our programs operate under the “Healthy Parks Healthy People: Truckee Meadows” initiative, which is based on the idea that the health of our parks is integrally related to the health of our community members.
Programs List
Below you will find descriptions of each program we are currently offering arranged by grade level. If you are interested in requesting one or more of these programs, please fill out the brief survey at the bottom of the page and the resources will be shared with you. If you have questions or would like additional information, contact Sam Dyer at [email protected]
Elementary School
Animal Adaptations
In this program, students will be introduced to the concepts adaptation and habitat. Students will learn the difference between physical and behavioral adaptations, and consider how an organism's environment might change their adaptations. They will then put their knowledge to the test by creatively designing and drawing unique new species according to the details of the provided 'habitat cards'. Students will wrap up the program by exploring the unique adaptations of humans, and the tools and behaviors that allow us to survive in so many different environments on earth. This program is appropriate for K-2nd grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-LS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, 1-LS1-1, 2-LS4-1.
Reptiles of Nevada
This program will introduce students to some of the native reptile species we have here in Nevada. Students will learn about Reptilian classification, and adaptations that help them to survive in their environment. By learning about these different species, students will begin to understand concepts regarding biodiversity, evolution, and ecological niches. This program is appropriate for K-2nd grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-ESS3-1, K-LS1-1, 2-LS4-1.
Out of this World - Lunar Phases
This program introduces students to the lunar cycle. By discussing patterns in the night sky based on their own experiences, students will learn the different phases of the moon and how what we observe is a product of our perspective. Student scientists then put their knowledge to the test by making models of the lunar cycle and experimenting with light and perspective. This program is designed for K-2 grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 1-ESS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, 1-PS4-2.
Snow Science
This program will introduce early elementary school students to snow as a type of weather, and a part of the winter season. Students will begin the program by learning about the conditions that cause snow to fall and the connection between snow and winter. Next, they will consider the properties of snow and investigate snowflakes up close to make scientific observations. Students will then have a chance to design their own unique snowflakes to demonstrate understanding. They will conclude the program by exploring the topic of snow safety. This program is designed for K-2 grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-ESS2-1, K-ESS3-1, K-ESS3-2.
Metamorphosis
This program reveals the fascinating journey of metamorphosis. Students will begin by learning the difference between complete and incomplete metamorphosis, the various stages of metamorphosis, and the types of organisms that metamorphose. They will put their skills to the test by classifying organisms based on their process of metamorphosis, as well as drawing out the stages of metamorphosis for different animals. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 1-LS3-1 & 3-LS1-1.
Hydrology
This program is designed to teach students about the importance of water quality and water quality assessment in aquatic ecosystems. Students will be given data from a local creek and pond and will utilize said data to analyze the health of each aquatic ecosystem and compare and contrast results. Scientific metrics analyzed include Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature, Water Clarity, and Biotic Index. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LSA-3.
Birds and their Adaptations
This program is designed to teach students the evolution of birds and their unique adaptations, with particular emphasis on birds local to the Sierra Nevada Forest and Great Basin Desert ecosystems. Students will be given a chance to observe birds in their natural outdoor settings via a pre-lesson video, explore the evolutionary path from dinosaurs to common-day birds, and consider the form and function of different bird's adaptations. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LS4-4, 4-LS1, 5-ESS2.
The Flow of Energy through an Ecosystem
This program is designed to teach students about the intricate and complex path that energy takes within an ecosystem. Students will consider where all energy comes from by determining and drawing the path of energy taken by their own favorite foods. They will consider the relationships of different organisms within a food web, and even participate in an energy relay race to see how energy is obtained and processed differently by producers, consumers, and decomposers. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 5-LS2-1.
Leaves and Photosynthesis
In this module, students will discuss the characteristics of different types of leaves, why these differences exist, why leaves change colors, and the science of photosynthesis. Students will complete activity worksheets which introduce botanical concepts and apply their reading skills to learn about photosynthesis and the chemistry behind it. They will explore the different features and characteristics of leaves including veins, margins, arrangements, and shapes, and even dip their toes into learning about evolutionary pressures that are put on plants. Students will conclude by demonstrating their understanding with a provided student worksheet. Afterward, students can enjoy one or both of the optional included crafts for a chance to get outside, collect some leaves, flowers, or other plant-related material, and enjoy some hands-on exploration. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LS4.B, 3-LS4.C, 4-LS1, 5-PS3.D, 5-LS1.C, 5-ESS2.A.
Fossils and Paleontology
In this module, students will explore fossils, and why they are important for human's study of the history of earth. Students will engage in discussions about extinction, evolution, and natural selection, as they relate to fossils and geology. They will be introduced to important paleontological vocabulary terms with a word search. After which, they will then learn about the formation and types of fossils and discuss what they've learned with their classmates. They will show their understanding by completing the included paleontology student worksheet. Afterward, students can then enjoy an optional 'Make your own Fossils' craft. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 4-ESS1.C & ESS2.A.
Middle School
Snow Science Series - Albedo and the Global Ice Pack
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about how climate change affects ice and albedo through studying real climate data. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS3-4 & MS-ESS2-2.
Snow Science Series - Climate Change Activism
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will become eco-warriors and create activism materials in the form of signs and speeches, a letter to a politician, or a plan for making their classroom or home use fewer fossil fuels and plastics. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-ESS3-5, MS-ESS2-2, MS-ESS3-1.
Snow Science Series - Snowflakes
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about the radial symmetry of snowflakes and use their skills to design their own. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS1-1 & MS-ESS2-5.
Snow Science Series - Winter Adaptations
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about animal adaptations and put their skills to the test by identifying winter adaptations of various species. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS4-4.
Snow Science Series - Snow and Ice
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about the molecular structure of water and ice crystals in order to construct an accurate model. They will learn the differences in density between water and ice and will use their scientific skills to hypothesize the answer to various comprehension questions. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS1-1, MS-PS1-4, MS-PS3-4, MS-ESS2-5.
Animal Migrations
This program illuminates the amazing lives of migratory animals. Students will decide where various animals spend their summers and winters based on each animal’s attributes. Students will then provide solutions to various problems caused by human activity. Finally, students will build their own compass to understand how animals use the Earth’s magnetic field to navigate around the globe. This program is appropriate for 6th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS2.1, MS-LS1-4, MS-LS1-5, MS-ESS3-3.
Beavers
In this program, students will learn about ecosystem engineers, ecosystem services, keystone species, and biomimicry through the exploration and analysis of beavers (Castor Canadensis). Students will begin by learning the life history of beavers and considering questions like, how and why do beavers build dams, what adaptations do beavers possess, and what impact beavers have on other organisms in their ecosystem. Students will put their knowledge to the test by applying critical thinking, ecological understanding, and engineering skills to design and build a functioning beaver dam. Students will conclude the program with a post-lesson activity that explores the important role that beavers play in ecosystems and the cascading effects that follow when they are removed. This program is appropriate for 6th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS2-1, MS-LS2-2, MS-LS2-3, MS-LS2-4, MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-4.
High School
Understanding Our Watershed
This program informs students about ecological watersheds and their importance. Students will use tools to construct their own model of the Truckee River Watershed. They will then use geographical data to analyze the features of a watershed, the flow of water, and the variation in watersheds across the United States. Students will wrap up the program by evaluating a real-world problem that is happening in our local watershed and determining a viable solution. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS2-2 & HS-LS2-7.
How to Predict the Weather
This program will familiarize students with the scientific principles and methodologies of weather and weather forecasting. Students will begin by considering the different properties of weather (temperature, pressure, & moisture). They will learn how humans are able to predict the weather, and the tools that are used to do so. Students will show their understanding by reading and analyzing maps to predict weather patterns. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS2-3, HS-ESS2-4, HS-ESS2-5.
Sustainability
In this program, students will use their problem-solving skills to consider sustainability-related challenges and solutions. Participants will learn about the 3 pillars of sustainability to understand the complexity and intersectionality of environmentalism. They will examine real-world case studies and show their understanding by creating a realistic management plan to solve the problem. Students will conclude the program by determining their ecological footprint and examining their own sustainable (or not) habits. They will consider the complexities of making sustainable change at the individual, national, and global level. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3-4, HS-ESS3-6, HS-ESS3-3.
Animal Adaptations
In this program, students will be introduced to the concepts adaptation and habitat. Students will learn the difference between physical and behavioral adaptations, and consider how an organism's environment might change their adaptations. They will then put their knowledge to the test by creatively designing and drawing unique new species according to the details of the provided 'habitat cards'. Students will wrap up the program by exploring the unique adaptations of humans, and the tools and behaviors that allow us to survive in so many different environments on earth. This program is appropriate for K-2nd grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-LS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, 1-LS1-1, 2-LS4-1.
Reptiles of Nevada
This program will introduce students to some of the native reptile species we have here in Nevada. Students will learn about Reptilian classification, and adaptations that help them to survive in their environment. By learning about these different species, students will begin to understand concepts regarding biodiversity, evolution, and ecological niches. This program is appropriate for K-2nd grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-ESS3-1, K-LS1-1, 2-LS4-1.
Out of this World - Lunar Phases
This program introduces students to the lunar cycle. By discussing patterns in the night sky based on their own experiences, students will learn the different phases of the moon and how what we observe is a product of our perspective. Student scientists then put their knowledge to the test by making models of the lunar cycle and experimenting with light and perspective. This program is designed for K-2 grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 1-ESS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, 1-PS4-2.
Snow Science
This program will introduce early elementary school students to snow as a type of weather, and a part of the winter season. Students will begin the program by learning about the conditions that cause snow to fall and the connection between snow and winter. Next, they will consider the properties of snow and investigate snowflakes up close to make scientific observations. Students will then have a chance to design their own unique snowflakes to demonstrate understanding. They will conclude the program by exploring the topic of snow safety. This program is designed for K-2 grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: K-ESS2-1, K-ESS3-1, K-ESS3-2.
Metamorphosis
This program reveals the fascinating journey of metamorphosis. Students will begin by learning the difference between complete and incomplete metamorphosis, the various stages of metamorphosis, and the types of organisms that metamorphose. They will put their skills to the test by classifying organisms based on their process of metamorphosis, as well as drawing out the stages of metamorphosis for different animals. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 1-LS3-1 & 3-LS1-1.
Hydrology
This program is designed to teach students about the importance of water quality and water quality assessment in aquatic ecosystems. Students will be given data from a local creek and pond and will utilize said data to analyze the health of each aquatic ecosystem and compare and contrast results. Scientific metrics analyzed include Dissolved Oxygen, pH, Temperature, Water Clarity, and Biotic Index. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LSA-3.
Birds and their Adaptations
This program is designed to teach students the evolution of birds and their unique adaptations, with particular emphasis on birds local to the Sierra Nevada Forest and Great Basin Desert ecosystems. Students will be given a chance to observe birds in their natural outdoor settings via a pre-lesson video, explore the evolutionary path from dinosaurs to common-day birds, and consider the form and function of different bird's adaptations. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LS4-4, 4-LS1, 5-ESS2.
The Flow of Energy through an Ecosystem
This program is designed to teach students about the intricate and complex path that energy takes within an ecosystem. Students will consider where all energy comes from by determining and drawing the path of energy taken by their own favorite foods. They will consider the relationships of different organisms within a food web, and even participate in an energy relay race to see how energy is obtained and processed differently by producers, consumers, and decomposers. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 5-LS2-1.
Leaves and Photosynthesis
In this module, students will discuss the characteristics of different types of leaves, why these differences exist, why leaves change colors, and the science of photosynthesis. Students will complete activity worksheets which introduce botanical concepts and apply their reading skills to learn about photosynthesis and the chemistry behind it. They will explore the different features and characteristics of leaves including veins, margins, arrangements, and shapes, and even dip their toes into learning about evolutionary pressures that are put on plants. Students will conclude by demonstrating their understanding with a provided student worksheet. Afterward, students can enjoy one or both of the optional included crafts for a chance to get outside, collect some leaves, flowers, or other plant-related material, and enjoy some hands-on exploration. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LS4.B, 3-LS4.C, 4-LS1, 5-PS3.D, 5-LS1.C, 5-ESS2.A.
Fossils and Paleontology
In this module, students will explore fossils, and why they are important for human's study of the history of earth. Students will engage in discussions about extinction, evolution, and natural selection, as they relate to fossils and geology. They will be introduced to important paleontological vocabulary terms with a word search. After which, they will then learn about the formation and types of fossils and discuss what they've learned with their classmates. They will show their understanding by completing the included paleontology student worksheet. Afterward, students can then enjoy an optional 'Make your own Fossils' craft. This program is appropriate for 3rd-5th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: 4-ESS1.C & ESS2.A.
Middle School
Snow Science Series - Albedo and the Global Ice Pack
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about how climate change affects ice and albedo through studying real climate data. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS3-4 & MS-ESS2-2.
Snow Science Series - Climate Change Activism
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will become eco-warriors and create activism materials in the form of signs and speeches, a letter to a politician, or a plan for making their classroom or home use fewer fossil fuels and plastics. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-ESS3-5, MS-ESS2-2, MS-ESS3-1.
Snow Science Series - Snowflakes
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about the radial symmetry of snowflakes and use their skills to design their own. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS1-1 & MS-ESS2-5.
Snow Science Series - Winter Adaptations
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about animal adaptations and put their skills to the test by identifying winter adaptations of various species. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS4-4.
Snow Science Series - Snow and Ice
This program is a part of the Snow Science collection which introduces students to phases of the water cycle, the different types of snow and ice, and the geometry of snowflakes. Students will explore different subjects including life science, physics, chemistry, math, art, reading, and writing, through the phenomenon of winter weather.
In this program, students will learn about the molecular structure of water and ice crystals in order to construct an accurate model. They will learn the differences in density between water and ice and will use their scientific skills to hypothesize the answer to various comprehension questions. This program is appropriate for 4th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-PS1-1, MS-PS1-4, MS-PS3-4, MS-ESS2-5.
Animal Migrations
This program illuminates the amazing lives of migratory animals. Students will decide where various animals spend their summers and winters based on each animal’s attributes. Students will then provide solutions to various problems caused by human activity. Finally, students will build their own compass to understand how animals use the Earth’s magnetic field to navigate around the globe. This program is appropriate for 6th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS2.1, MS-LS1-4, MS-LS1-5, MS-ESS3-3.
Beavers
In this program, students will learn about ecosystem engineers, ecosystem services, keystone species, and biomimicry through the exploration and analysis of beavers (Castor Canadensis). Students will begin by learning the life history of beavers and considering questions like, how and why do beavers build dams, what adaptations do beavers possess, and what impact beavers have on other organisms in their ecosystem. Students will put their knowledge to the test by applying critical thinking, ecological understanding, and engineering skills to design and build a functioning beaver dam. Students will conclude the program with a post-lesson activity that explores the important role that beavers play in ecosystems and the cascading effects that follow when they are removed. This program is appropriate for 6th-8th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: MS-LS2-1, MS-LS2-2, MS-LS2-3, MS-LS2-4, MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-4.
High School
Understanding Our Watershed
This program informs students about ecological watersheds and their importance. Students will use tools to construct their own model of the Truckee River Watershed. They will then use geographical data to analyze the features of a watershed, the flow of water, and the variation in watersheds across the United States. Students will wrap up the program by evaluating a real-world problem that is happening in our local watershed and determining a viable solution. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS2-2 & HS-LS2-7.
How to Predict the Weather
This program will familiarize students with the scientific principles and methodologies of weather and weather forecasting. Students will begin by considering the different properties of weather (temperature, pressure, & moisture). They will learn how humans are able to predict the weather, and the tools that are used to do so. Students will show their understanding by reading and analyzing maps to predict weather patterns. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS2-3, HS-ESS2-4, HS-ESS2-5.
Sustainability
In this program, students will use their problem-solving skills to consider sustainability-related challenges and solutions. Participants will learn about the 3 pillars of sustainability to understand the complexity and intersectionality of environmentalism. They will examine real-world case studies and show their understanding by creating a realistic management plan to solve the problem. Students will conclude the program by determining their ecological footprint and examining their own sustainable (or not) habits. They will consider the complexities of making sustainable change at the individual, national, and global level. This program is appropriate for 9th-12th grade students and covers the following Next Generation Science Standards: HS-ESS3-1, HS-ESS3-4, HS-ESS3-6, HS-ESS3-3.
